Chongqing

Chongqing: A City of Spicy Hotpot and Stunning Landscapes – Travel Guide 2024

  • Country: China

Planning Your Trip to Chongqing

Essential Travel Information

  • Country: China

Chongqing Timezone

  • GMT +8

Languages Spoken in Chongqing

  • Mandarin Chinese (specifically Southwestern Mandarin)

Chongqing Currency

  • Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Weather & Best Time to Visit Chongqing

Chongqing Climate Snapshot Across Months

  • Spring (March-May): Mild and pleasant, but expect rain. Temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F).
  • Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Chongqing is known as one of the “furnace cities” of China.
  • Autumn (September-November): The most comfortable time to visit, with cooler temperatures and less rain. Temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F).
  • Winter (December-February): Mild but damp and overcast. Temperatures can drop to 5-10°C (41-50°F).

Best Time to Visit Chongqing

  • Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers. Cons: Rainfall can be frequent.
  • Autumn (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, clear skies. Cons: Can be slightly crowded.

Getting to Chongqing & Visa Information

  • Flights: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) is a major hub for both international and domestic flights. Book flights to Chongqing in advance for the best deals.
  • Trains: Chongqing has well-connected railway stations offering convenient travel to other cities in China. Consider booking train tickets online through reliable platforms.
  • Visa Details: Ensure you have the correct visa for China. Check with your local Chinese embassy or consulate well in advance of your trip as visa requirements vary based on nationality.
  • Airport Transfers: Get to the city center from the airport easily by using airport buses, taxis, or the metro.

Discovering Chongqing

City Overview

Chongqing, a vibrant metropolis at the junction of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, is a stunning mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional Chinese architecture, and lush mountains. Famous for its incredibly spicy hotpot, lively street scenes, and impressive natural beauty, Chongqing gives travelers a truly unique experience. It’s a city full of energy, from its busy business districts to its charming old neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. You can explore historic temples on the hillsides, wander through the city’s maze-like streets, and enjoy the bold tastes of Sichuan cuisine. This hilly municipality has a lot to offer beyond the urban attractions. It serves as a gateway to the Three Gorges and showcases China’s rapid growth and enduring cultural legacy.

Chongqing Historical Fact

During World War II, Chongqing was the provisional capital of China, facing severe bombing by Japan. The city’s determination led to the name “Heroic City.” Many underground tunnels and shelters built then are still around today.

Famous Personalities from Chongqing

Wang Junkai (Karry Wang), a popular singer and actor, hails from Chongqing.

Top Attractions & Things to Do in Chongqing

Must-See Chongqing Attractions

  • Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town: Experience a traditional village with quaint alleys, teahouses, and craft shops.
    • Address: Shapingba District, Chongqing
  • Hongyadong: A magnificent cliffside stilt house complex offering shops, restaurants, and river views. Perfect for evening strolls and photos.
    • Address: Cangbai Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Yangtze River Cableway: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Yangtze River from this iconic cable car. Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
    • Address: Xinhua Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Eling Park: Relax in this hilltop park featuring beautiful gardens and sweeping city views.
    • Address: Elingzheng St, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Three Gorges Museum: Discover the history and culture of the Three Gorges region at this informative museum.
    • Address: Renmin Square, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Great Hall of the People: Admire this grand Soviet-style building, often used for meetings and events.
    • Address: Renmin Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Liberation Monument: Visit this landmark commemorating China’s victory over Japan. A popular shopping area surrounds it.
    • Address: Minzu Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Arhat Temple: Explore this ancient Buddhist temple adorned with intricate carvings and statues.
    • Address: Minzu Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Chongqing Zoo: See giant pandas and other endangered species at this popular zoo.
    • Address: Xijiao Rd, Jiulongpo District, Chongqing
  • Southern Mountain Park: Escape to this scenic mountain park, which offers hiking trails and temples.
    • Address: Nanshan, Nan’an District, Chongqing

Chongqing Hidden Gems

  • Testbed 2 Arts Center: Explore this former printing factory turned vibrant arts district.
    • Address: Liziba, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Foreigners Street (Abandoned): An abandoned theme park providing bizarre photo opportunities.
    • Address: Yangren Jie, Nan’an District, Chongqing
  • Huangjueping Graffiti Street: Immerse yourself in colorful street art on this graffitied street.
    • Address: Huangjueping Main St, Jiulongpo District, Chongqing

Local Festivals & Events in Chongqing

  • Chongqing Hot Pot Cultural Festival: An amazing event that celebrates the city’s well-known dish featuring competitions and tastings.
  • Chongqing International Marathon: Participate in an annual marathon drawing runners from across the globe.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival: Enjoy a classic event filled with delicious mooncakes together with get-togethers amongst loved ones.

Day Trips from Chongqing

  • Dazu Rock Carvings: Explore ancient Buddhist sculptures (approximately 2 hours by bus). Consider booking a guided tour.
  • Wulong Karst National Geology Park: Discover stunning karst landscapes and caves (approximately 3 hours by bus). A must-see for nature lovers.
  • Fengdu Ghost City: Visit this city thought to be where the dead dwell (about 3 hours by bus).

Best Photography Spots in Chongqing

  • Hongyadong at Night: Capture stunning photos of the illuminated stilt houses.
  • Yangtze River Cableway: Get panoramic city views for amazing photographs.
  • Huangjueping Graffiti Street: Use this vibrant street as a background for artistic pictures.
  • Eling Park: Get panoramic views of the city and the rivers from this park.

Planning Your Stay in Chongqing

How Many Days to Spend in Chongqing?

  • 3-5 days should be sufficient to explore the city’s main attractions and savor the local cuisine.

Recommended Chongqing Hotels

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Chongqing

  • Hanting Express Chongqing Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street:
    • Address: No. 158 Minzu Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Home Inn Chongqing Jiefangbei Center:
    • Address: No. 29 Minquan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • 7 Days Inn Chongqing Jiefangbei Branch:
    • Address: No. 62 Minzu Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing

Mid-Range Hotels in Chongqing

  • Holiday Inn Express Chongqing Guanyinqiao:
    • Address: No. 8 Jianxin North Road, Jiangbei District, Chongqing
  • Citadines Raffles City Chongqing:
    • Address: No. 2 Chaotianmen, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Somerset Yangtze River Chongqing:
    • Address: No. 88 Nanbin Road, Nan’an District, Chongqing

Luxury Hotels in Chongqing

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Chongqing:
    • Address: No. 139 Minzu Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Niccolo Chongqing:
    • Address: IFS, No. 8 Qingyun Road, Jiangbei District, Chongqing
  • Hyatt Regency Chongqing:
    • Address: No. 88 Jiangnan Avenue, Nan’an District, Chongqing

Getting Around Chongqing

  • Public Transport: Chongqing offers a comprehensive metro system and bus network for affordable travel. Purchase a transportation card for convenience.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available; however, ensure that the meter is functioning. Consider using ride-hailing apps.
  • Bikes: Bike-sharing services are available in many areas.
  • Walking: Explore the city on foot, but be prepared for hills and stairs.

Essential Information for Visiting Chongqing

What to Pack for Your Chongqing Trip

  • Comfortable shoes are essential for walking.
  • Pack light clothes for summer and layers for winter.
  • Bring an umbrella or raincoat, particularly in spring and summer.
  • Don’t forget your electronics adapters.
  • A translation app or phrasebook will be very helpful.

Useful Apps for Navigating Chongqing

  • Baidu Maps: For navigation.
  • Dianping: To find restaurant reviews.
  • Ctrip: For travel bookings.
  • Pleco: Use as a Chinese dictionary.
  • Alipay/WeChat Pay: For mobile payment.

Chongqing Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

  • Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded locations.
  • Bargain respectfully when you shop at markets.
  • Avoid sensitive political topics in conversation.
  • Learn some Mandarin phrases.
  • Tipping isn’t typically required.

Chongqing Food & Drink

Top Restaurants in Chongqing

  • Li Ziba Hotpot: Enjoy the spicy broth at this popular hotpot chain.
    • Address: Multiple locations throughout Chongqing
  • Good Fortune Restaurant: Try authentic Chongqing dishes here.
    • Address: Bayi Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Da Long Yi Hotpot: This famous hotpot restaurant features an even spicier broth.
    • Address: Multiple locations throughout Chongqing

Must-Try Chongqing Dishes

  • Chongqing Hotpot: Experience the spicy broth with a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles.
  • Xiao Mian: Sample these spicy noodles.
  • Laziji: Try this spicy chicken.
  • Suan La Fen: Enjoy sour and spicy glass noodles.
  • Mapo Tofu: Taste tofu served in a spicy sauce.

Chongqing Nightlife & Entertainment

Best Nightlife Spots in Chongqing

  • Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street: There are bars, shops, and clubs at this vibrant area.
    • Address: Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Nanbin Road: Offers dining places together with bars with riverside seating that provide amazing scenery.
    • Address: Nanbin Road, Nan’an District, Chongqing
  • Sinopec Tower Bar: Enjoy the city views from a rooftop bar.
    • Address: Zhonghua Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing

Chongqing Shopping & Souvenirs

What to Buy in Chongqing

  • Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town: Find a range of classic handicrafts, local foods, and gifts.
    • Address: Shapingba District, Chongqing
  • Hongyadong: Pick up regional items together with keepsakes to take home.
    • Address: Cangbai Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
  • Chongqing specialties: Buy some spicy peanuts, hotpot seasoning, and silk textiles.

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